What’s Wrong with My Brakes?

Of all the systems on board your vehicle, your brakes are arguably the most important for your safety. If your brakes are worn or if your brakes aren’t functioning properly, then your vehicle will have a longer stopping distance and give you less time to react and avoid a collision if you need to stop quickly.

There can be a number of other reasons for reduced braking performance. Brake repair should be done as quickly as possible once an issue is noticed in order to avoid potential danger. Book a service appointment at Kelowna Nissan if you have any doubts.

Symptoms and Solutions for Reduced Braking Performance

Pulsing Brakes
If you feel a “pulsing” sensation when you put your foot on the brake pedal and you find that your steering wheel jerks as your vehicle slows down, it may be due to warped brake rotors or drums, or a malfunction in the ABS (Antilock Brake System).

To fix brakes that pulse, you may need to machine the rotors or drums until their surface is smooth again. In some cases your brake rotors or drum will need to be replaced.

Sticking Brakes
If your brakes fail to retract (this is more common in older drum-style braking systems), then your brake springs may need to be replaced. If you experience sticking brakes on a vehicle with disc brakes, it may be due to damaged or aged brake caliper seals. Brakes that stick or drag will wear much more quickly than if they function properly.

Brake Pedal Goes to the Floor
If your brakes are not responsive, or the pedal goes all the way to the floor, then you may have a leak or air in the brake lines. Open your hood and check your vehicle’s brake fluid level (see your owner’s manual if for where to look). Clean the area around the brake fluid reservoir with a clean rag and remove the top to inspect the fluid. If it looks dirty or low, you may need to have a brake fluid flush.

Another reason for non-responsive brakes is a leaking master cylinder. While a master cylinder leak may be more difficult to spot (especially if it is an internal leak), it is commonly the problem if you can’t find any other external leaks.

Squealing Brakes
If your brakes make a high-pitched squeal, that often indicates that it is time to change your brake pads. Most brake pads come equipped with a metal wear indicator that will squeal when your pads are in need replacing. If you drive for too long without replacing your brake pads or shoes, you may damage your brake rotors or drums, which could then need to be machined or replaced.

Vibrating Brakes
Similar to pulsing brakes, if you feel significant vibration when you use your brakes it may also be due to imperfections or warping of your brake rotors or drums. The solution is to either replace or machine the required components.

How much does it cost for a brake job?
The cost of a brake job depends on what services will be required including what components will have to be replaced, if your rotors and/or brake discs can be honed (if needed), and whether your master cylinder is in need of repair. Kelowna Nissan provides a full diagnosis service and offers competitive prices on repairs.

Vehicle Service FAQs Check Engine Light Engine Oil Level Change Engine Oil Change Tire Sync Phone Change Windshield Wipers Change Car Battery High Octane Fuel Fuel Efficiency Coolant Levels Transmission Fluid Air Conditioning Rough Idle Brake Issues Powertrain Warrant Extended Warranty